On February 1, 2017, Willamette University will present bestselling author Ta-Nehisi Coates, who will deliver “A Deeper Black: Race in America” as part of the university’s Atkinson Lecture Series and annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration. Doors open at 6 for the 7 p.m. lecture in the university's Smith Auditorium.

Called “the single best writer on the subject of race in the United States” by New York Observer, Coates has earned widespread critical praise for his keen insight and powerful prose.

Beginning January 16, university students, faculty and staff each can reserve up to four free general admission tickets, and alumni can reserve two free tickets. Any remaining tickets will be available on January 23 for members of the public, who may reserve up to two free tickets.